By Lehlohonolo Lehana.
The Kwazulu-Natal (KZN) transport department has confirmed that the second of two aircraft that went missing in Nottingham Road, KwaZulu-Natal, on Wednesday has been found.
The aircraft was found on Thursday morning, and its pilot was found dead north of Boston.
The first aircraft was recovered on Wednesday evening, along with the body of its pilot.
Department spokesperson Ndabezinhle Sibiya says, “We got a report from Aeronautical Search and Rescue Co-ordination Centre and the SAPS Search and Rescue Unit indicating that they have found the second aircraft.”
“Unfortunately, the pilot suffered fatal injuries. The search and rescue team has now moved into the second phase of their operation.”
“The South African Police Services will now take over the scene, and the investigation process will commence with the Civil Aviation Authorities Accident and Incident Investigation division, as well as the South African Police investigation, added Sibiya.”
According to the Accidents and Incidents Investigations Division, an arm of the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA), both aircrafts had departed from the Secunda Airport in Mpumalanga and were due to land at the Margate Airport on the KZN South Coast.
“After they were reported missing in inclement weather, the ARCC immediately launched a search that led to the successful recovery of both aircraft. The AIID sends its condolences to the family and loved ones at this time,” it added.
A preliminary report will be published following the investigation.
SACAA regulates light aircraft operations through safety regulations, including prohibitions against endangering an aircraft and regulations for the use of lights.